Premier League Superstar admits ‘interest’ in a move to Barcelona

Philippe Coutinho has admitted that he was genuinely ‘interested’ in moving to Barcelona in August

Coutinho was subject to various bids for from the Blaugrana and he remains unsure about his future at the Anfield. Barcelona saw three bids rejected by Liverpool last summer, but the La Liga favourites are expected to be back for Coutinho in January.

Barcelona lost Neymar to PSG and they wanted his compatriot to take over Neymar’s throne at the Camp Nou. Coutinho handed in a transfer request, despite signing a new five-year deal with the Reds earlier in 2017, but Liverpool were reluctant to lose the Brazilian midfielder. The Reds rejected three mammoth bids from the Blaugrana which were in the region of £72m, £90m and a staggering £114m respectively.

13 – Philippe Coutinho has been directly involved in 13 goals in his last 11 appearances in all competitions for Liverpool (7 goals, 6 assists). Star. pic.twitter.com/8cJX5rIYNG

After being sidelined for the start of the campaign the 25-year-old has found his magical touch once again, as portrayed by his hat-trick against Spartak Moscow. The Brazilian has netted nine goals so far this term, further providing six for his team-mates across all competitions.

Coutinho remains unsure about his future as of yet, though he admitted recently that he was keen to join Barcelona. He said, “Last summer there was a job offer in the same way that happens with every employee and I was interested in it. Since I stayed I have played with will and desire. Of course, a lot happened in the summer but my will is always to play and do the best wherever I am – that has not changed.”

The 25-year-old further added, “I do not know how the future is going to be, What will happen in January, we will know it in January. I do not know if there will be an offer. I am here (at Liverpool), we have a lot of games and I try to do my best to help. I always do my best when I have the opportunity to play, respecting the jersey and the supporters.”

Author’s take

Being one among the most consistent players in past seasons for the Reds, it is no doubt why they rejected to listen to any offers for the midfielder. Coutinho however, remains adamant that he is unwilling to commit to Liverpool and as a coach, I would not that take lightly. I feel Liverpool will do themselves no good by holding onto a player who is not committed to the club. The Brazilian wants to depart Anfield, and it will be the best option for both the player and the club to part ways happily.

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